Anti-corrosion protection of tanks: methods, materials and importance for durability

Introduction

Steel tanks are widely used to store petroleum products, chemicals, water and other liquids. However, due to constant contact with liquids and environmental influences, steel is prone to corrosion, which can lead to reduced structural strength, leaks and accidents. That is why corrosion protection of tanks is critical to ensure their durability, safety and compliance with regulatory requirements. In this article, we will consider the main methods of corrosion control, materials for protective coatings and their role in preserving the structure.

Basic methods of anti-corrosion protection of tanks

1. Sandblasting and shot blasting

Before applying an anti-corrosion coating, the surface of the tank must be carefully prepared. For this, sandblasting or shot blasting , which allows the metal to be cleaned of oxides, old coatings and contaminants. This method creates a rough surface , which improves the adhesion (adhesion) of the anti-corrosion coating to the metal.

🔹 Benefits:
✔ High cleaning efficiency.
✔ Improved adhesion of the protective coating.
✔ Removal of oxides that contribute to corrosion.

2. Protective coatings: paints, enamels and polymers

One of the most common methods of protecting tanks from corrosion is the application of anti-corrosion paints and coatings . The main types of materials include:

✅ Epoxy coatings - provide resistance to mechanical loads, chemical influences and aggressive liquids.
✅ Polyurethane paints - protect tanks from ultraviolet radiation and atmospheric influences.
✅ Zinc coatings (cold or hot galvanizing) - create an additional barrier to prevent corrosion.
✅ Bitumen coatings - are used for tanks located underground or in contact with a humid environment.

The choice of coating depends on the purpose of the tank, the type of liquid stored, and operating conditions.

3. Cathodic protection

Cathodic protection is an electrochemical method that prevents metal from corroding by connecting it to an external current source or sacrificial anode.

🔹 Cathodic protection methods:
✔ Sacrificial anode protection – uses anodes made of magnesium, zinc or aluminum that “sacrifice” themselves, gradually oxidizing instead of the steel.
✔ Forced cathodic protection – uses a constant electric current to shift the potential of the steel towards the protected state.

This method is particularly effective for underground or underwater tanks , as well as those used in aggressive environments.

4. Using stainless or special steel

Another way to increase the corrosion resistance of tanks is to use special grades of steel . For example, stainless steel or steel with a high chromium and nickel content resists corrosion processes much longer.

🔹 Advantages:
✔ Long service life without the need for regular repairs.
✔ High chemical resistance.
✔ Reduced maintenance costs.

However, stainless steel is much more expensive , so its use is only advisable in cases where the tanks store particularly aggressive substances.

Why is corrosion protection critical?

Corrosion is one of the main causes of tank failure , which can lead to leaks, environmental pollution, and significant financial costs for repair or replacement of the structure.

🔹 Main risks of lack of protection:
⚠ Leakage of hazardous liquids.
⚠ Loss of strength and deformation of the structure.
⚠ Increased costs for repair and restoration.
⚠ Tank decommissioning before the calculated period.

Timely treatment of tanks with protective materials, regular monitoring of the condition of the metal, and the use of modern methods of combating corrosion can significantly extend the service life of tanks , minimizing the costs of their maintenance.

Conclusion

Anti-corrosion protection of tanks is not only a requirement of safety standards, but also a key factor in extending their service life . The use of sandblasting, special protective coatings, cathodic protection and resistant steel grades minimizes the risk of damage and ensures many years of safe operation .

The application of the correct corrosion protection depends on the operating conditions, the type of liquid and the material of the tank , so it is important to correctly select the optimal corrosion control method to ensure effective and long-lasting storage of liquids .

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